Assistant Director of Financial Aid

The Assistant Director of Financial Aid supports the administration, delivery, and compliance of Siena University's financial aid programs. Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Assistant Director assists in managing daily operations, ensures accurate and timely processing of aid, and provides exceptional service to students and families. This role plays a key part in achieving enrollment and retention goals through strong collaboration, data accuracy, and student-centered support.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Support: Assist in the daily operations of the Financial Aid Office, including packaging, awarding, and disbursement of federal, state, and institutional aid.
• Program Administration: Support specific financial aid programs using extensive knowledge of program specific rules and regulations.
• Student Counseling: Advise and guide current and prospective students and their families through financial aid processes with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Representation: Represent Siena University at on- and off-campus recruitment and counselor events, presenting on financial aid opportunities and processes.
• Collaboration: Work closely with Admissions, Marketing, Finance, Development, Athletics, and other campus partners to ensure accurate awarding and excellent student service.
• Training and Mentorship: Assist in training graduate assistants, student workers, and counselors to promote consistent, compliant, and service-oriented practices.
• Data and Reporting: Assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting for internal and external scholarship awarding or operational decisions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree required (business, accounting, finance, higher education administration, or related field).
• Experience: 1-2 years of experience in customer service, counseling, student services, or administrative support.
• Customer service excellence: Strong commitment to student-centered service, with the ability to explain complex financial information clearly and empathetically.
• Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with others both internally and externally
• Analytical & communication skills: Strong quantitative, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills. Able to explain complex information in a clear and supportive way. Comfortable presenting to large groups.
• Ethics & confidentiality: High degree of professionalism, accuracy, and discretion in handling sensitive financial and student information.
• Accuracy: high attention to detail and commitment to accuracy 
• Time Management: ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Technology Focused: proficiency with Microsoft Office and a curious mindset towards learning new software systems.
• Mission Driven: demonstrated commitment to Siena's mission of student access, affordability, and success.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, Business, or a related field.
• Experience: 2 years of experience in financial aid, higher ed or finance, with some exposure to financial aid, admissions, student accounts, or related administrative processes.
• Technology Fluency: Experience with student information systems or databases such as Ellucian Banner, Slate or similar tools.
• Public engagement: Skilled presenter at recruitment events and counselor programs; capable of translating policy into accessible, engaging language for families.
• Process improvement: Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies to streamline operations and enhance service quality.
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Core Competencies

• Student advocate: Delivers caring, student-centered service that supports access and success.
• Collaborative Teammate: Works effectively across campus to ensure a seamless experience for students and families.
• Learner and Problem-Solver: Demonstrates curiosity, initiative, and adaptability in mastering new systems and regulations.
• Ethical Steward: Handles confidential financial and student information with integrity and discretion.
• Effective Communicator: Builds trust through clear, compassionate, and professional communication